Three Approaches to Psychotherapy: The Gloria Films

The Gloria Films, formally titled Three Approaches to Psychotherapy, are a landmark series in clinical training that features a single patient, Gloria, undergoing sessions with three pioneers of psychology to highlight the practical differences between their theoretical orientations. Carl Rogers demonstrates Person-Centered Therapy by providing a warm, non-directive environment focused on empathy and unconditional positive regard to help Gloria reach her own conclusions. In stark contrast, Fritz Perls utilizes Gestalt Therapy to challenge her “phony” behaviors in the “here and now,” using a confrontational style to force her to take personal responsibility for her feelings. Finally, Albert Ellis employs Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) to actively and directively dispute Gloria’s irrational beliefs, teaching her that her self-defeating thoughts, rather than her past, are the source of her current distress.